The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast

Playing Above the Clouds – An Unforgettable Experience at McLemore

Where Golf Meets Travel, Lifestyle, and Unforgettable Adventures.  Today, we’re heading above the clouds to McLemore, a breathtaking destination on Lookout Mountain, Georgia.
Known for its world-class courses — the Highlands and The Keep — McLemore is more than golf. It’s an unforgettable experience where stunning landscapes, world-class design, and pure luxury meet.”
Location: Lookout Mountain, 2,300 ft above sea level.
Accessibility: 2-hour drive from Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, Huntsville, Knoxville.
Atmosphere: Feels like “an island in the sky.”
First impressions: clean mountain air, sweeping views up to 60 miles, cliffs dropping 1,500 feet into the valley.
Story hook: share a personal anecdote or imagine arriving and stepping out onto the 18th green with mountains stretching forever.
Segment 2: The Highlands Course 
Award-winning par 71 course reimagined by Bill Bergin & Rees Jones.
Signature hole: the 18th — named by Links Magazine as one of the “Top 10 finishing holes in the world.”
Style: cliff-edge fairways, amphitheater-like layout, open views of nearly every hole.
Why golfers love it: dramatic but playable; challenge with scenery.
Diva tip: wear spikeless shoes with grip for mountain terrain + chic lightweight layers for changing mountain weather.
Segment 3: The Keep – McLemore’s New Jewel 
Second course, The Keep — opened with five cliff-edge holes.
Links-inspired “mountain meets an ocean of sky.”
Walkable: just 5 miles with 500 ft elevation change (rare for mountain golf).
Natural amphitheater design — see portions of all 18 holes from multiple spots.
Spectator-friendly course (great for tournaments).
Epic natural features: streams, waterfalls, ancient boulders, and wetlands preserved.
Why it’s special: every tee shot feels like a postcard.
Personal Diva thought: “It’s the kind of course where you don’t just play golf, you create memories.”
Segment 4: Beyond the Fairways – Stay & Play 
Accommodations:
Curio Collection by Hilton, Cloudland Hotel (clifftop views).
Private luxury homes and cozy mountaintop cottages.
Resort experience:
Fine dining overlooking the valley.
Short course for quick games.
Relaxing spaces: spas, hiking, nature walks.
Lifestyle tie-in: golf + travel + luxury = Golf Diva heaven.
Segment 5: Why McLemore Belongs on Your Bucket List 
Unique elevation: play golf in the sky.
Design pedigree: Rees Jones & Bill Bergin.
Playability: challenging but accessible to all levels.
Views: 60-mile panoramic Blue Ridge vistas.
Exclusivity: feels secluded, away from crowds.
Networking potential: executives, golfers, and travelers gather here — perfect for building relationships.
Takeaways & Call to Action 
Key Takeaways:
McLemore offers two world-class courses — Highlands & The Keep — with unmatched scenery. 
Website:  https://www.themclemore.com/
It’s a destination where golf, travel, and luxury intersect.
It’s not just golf; it’s an experience above the clouds.
“So, Diva Tip for today: don’t just plan your next golf trip — make it unforgettable. Add McLemore to your list, bring your best golf wear, and get ready for an adventure that’s part golf, part lifestyle, and completely magical.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I’m Doris, your Traveling Golf Diva. Until next time — keep swinging, keep traveling, and always add a touch of Diva flair to the game we love.”  Subscribe to our monthly newsletter, share, and follow us on social media.  Visit our website:  https://thetravelinggolfdiva.com/
 

Growing the Game – A Conversation with Terrie Purdum, Publisher of Golf Central Magazine

The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast with Host Doris Muscarella and Terrie Purdum, Publisher of Golf Central Magazine
Host: Doris Muscarella Special Guest: Terrie Purdum, Founder and Publisher of Golf Central Magazine
Join Doris Muscarella, the Traveling Golf Diva, for an inspiring episode where she sits down with Terrie Purdum – the visionary publisher behind Golf Central Magazine, the Southeast's longest-running regional golf publication. Launched in 1999 as Florida Golf Central, this trailblazing magazine has thrived for over 26 years under Terrie's leadership, making it the only U.S. golf magazine with continuous female ownership for that duration.
In this engaging discussion, Terrie shares her passion for growing the great game of golf. She emphasizes creating a welcoming environment for young players and beginners, helping them feel comfortable and confident on the course.
golfpixels.com
golfcentralmag.com
Key Topics Covered:
Philanthropy in Golf: Terrie highlights the magazine's dedication to covering charity golf tournaments more extensively than any other regional publication. She discusses giving sponsors the recognition they deserve for supporting events that truly make a difference and change lives.
golfstatus.com
springisdfoundation.org
Supporting Military Golf Events: A heartfelt segment on the magazine's commitment to promoting and supporting events for veterans and active military, expressing deep gratitude for the men and women who serve our country.
solivitahoa.com
wisconsin.pga.com
Making Golf Fun and Inclusive: Terrie describes herself as a "rebel visionary" in the traditional world of golf, focusing on fun, heartfelt stories, and educating consumers. She talks about collaborating with the PGA and GCSAA to include everyday golfers in the conversation.
Terrie reflects on the magazine's evolution – from its Orlando roots to covering turf, travel, philanthropy, and lifestyle across the Southeast – and its sister brand, Turf Life, which celebrates the unsung heroes maintaining the greens we love.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about golf's growth, community impact, and the power of storytelling in the sport.
Where to Listen: Available on all major podcast platforms. Follow Us:
The Traveling Golf Diva: thetravelinggolfdiva.com
Golf Central Magazine: golfcentralmag.com
Tune in and get inspired to hit the links with purpose! 🏌️‍♀️⛳
 

Golf, Leadership & Wellness: Building a Stronger Tomorrow with Dr. Christine Thorpe

Welcome to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast with Doris Muscarella - where golf meets travel, lifestyle, and unforgettable adventures. 
In this episode, Golf, Leadership & Wellness: Building a Stronger Tomorrow with Dr. Christine Thorpe
Dr. Christine Thorpe – Health Educator | Wellness Coach | CEO of Stronger Tomorrow | Board Chair, YWCA Northern New Jersey Host: Doris Muscarella 
Dr. Christine: “Golf isn’t just a game—it’s the ultimate leadership laboratory.”
Doris welcomes the Divas and introduces Dr. Christine as the woman who is changing the face of executive networking… one swing at a time.
Meet Dr. Christine Thorpe – The Origin Story
From corporate leader and health educator to realizing the golf course was the most under-used boardroom for women
Founding Stronger Tomorrow: why she saw an urgent need for women executives to have a safe, fun space to learn golf, build wellness habits, and create authentic relationships
Her role as Board Chair of YWCA Northern New Jersey and how social-impact leadership fuels everything she does
Why Golf + Women in Leadership is a Perfect Match
The surprising parallels between the golf swing and leadership resilience
How 4 hours on the course reveals more about someone than 4 years in the office
Breaking the “old boys’ club” stereotype: creating environments where women feel celebrated, not intimidated
Inside Stronger Tomorrow Experiences
What really happens at a Stronger Tomorrow event (half-day and full-weekend formats)
The unique blend: professional round-table discussions + wellness sessions + on-course golf coaching
Real stories:  The CFO who closed her biggest deal ever with a connection made on the 9th green 
Why learning golf in a women-only, judgment-free setting accelerates confidence on and off the course
Wellness Secrets Every Busy Woman Leader Needs
The “Executive Par” morning routine (under 15 minutes)
Simple, golf-specific mobility moves that double as stressbusters
How to use the golf course as a moving meditation and networking goldmine
Quick nutrition and hydration tips that keep energy high from the first tee to the 19th hole
Rapid-Fire Leadership & Golf Round
The biggest leadership lesson the golf course has taught her
One myth about women executives and golf she wants to shatter forever
Favorite “power move” when introducing yourself on the first tee
The non-negotiable item in her golf bag that has nothing to do with clubs
The Vision: A Stronger Tomorrow for Women Everywhere
Upcoming 2026 Stronger Tomorrow retreats and how to get involved
Plans to bring the model to Florida and beyond (hint, hint for South Florida Divas!)
How any woman—at any level—can start using golf strategically right now, even if she’s never touched a club
Final Takeaways from Dr. Christine Thorpe
Golf is the fastest way to build trust-based relationships that last a career.
You don’t have to be good at golf to belong—you just have to show up as you are.
When women invest in their wellness and their network at the same time, everyone wins.
The future of leadership is inclusive, wellness-focused, and (yes!) played on grass.
Closing
Doris thanks Dr. Christine and invites listeners to bring their own leadership teams to a future Stronger Tomorrow event
Subscribe, share with your boss/bestie/boardroom, leave a 5-star review
Where to find Dr. Christine & Stronger Tomorrow: → www.strongertomorrow.org  Instagram: @stronger.tomorrow → Join the waitlist for 2026 events – link in show notes!
Let’s build a stronger tomorrow, one drive at a time.
Thank you for joining me on this journey today. I am Doris, your Traveling Golf Diva.  Until next time – keep swinging, keep traveling, and always add a touch of ‘Diva flair to the game we love.  Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter, share, and follow us on social media and visit our website:  https://thetravelinggolfdiva.com/ for the latest news and guest speakers. 

Interview with Christina Ricci! A PGA & LPGA Class-A pro and TPI Level 3

The Traveling Golf Diva with Host Doris Muscarella and Christina Ricci
Getting More Pars with Christina Ricci – From 5-Year Golfer to Global Coach Phenomenon Guest: Christina Ricci, PGA & LPGA Class A, TPI Level 3 Host: Doris Muscarella
Doris welcomes listeners and introduces Christina as one of the most beloved and recognizable coaches in women’s golf today
About Our Guest – The Christina Ricci Origin Story
How a non-athletic adult picked up golf and went from beginner to a 5 handicap in just five years
The moment she realized teaching was her true calling
Writing her first book → unexpectedly hitting #1 → launching the More Pars empire
Becoming PGA & LPGA Class A and TPI Level 3 certified
 
 
The More Pars Philosophy
Why “More Pars” is about so much more than score – it’s about freedom and fun
The power of immersive, resort-based camps (and why a 3-day experience can change someone’s game forever)
Who the camps are really for: beginners to single-digit players, men and women
Key Topics & Teaching Goal
The biggest myth recreational players believe about swing changes
One simple concept that instantly adds distance for 90% of players
Why most women (and men) leave 30–50 yards on the table – and how to claim it
The “Fitness Friday” approach: simple TPI-based moves anyone can do at home
How Christina’s YouTube channel and books make elite instruction accessible to everyone
Life on the Road & Behind the Scenes
Favorite resort camp destinations and what makes each one special
Memorable student success stories (the 70-year-old who started hitting driver 200+ yards, etc.)
Appearing on Golf Channel, Golf Tips magazine, and reaching millions online
Rapid-Fire “More Pars” Lightning Round
Best drill for the shanks
One swing thought that cures the slice for good
Favorite club in the bag right now
The non-golf activity that improved her own game the most
What she wishes every new golfer knew on Day 1
What’s Next for Christina & More Pars
New camps and locations for 2025/2026
Upcoming books, video series, or surprises
How listeners can train with Christina (camps, online membership, YouTube, books)
Final Takeaways from Christina Ricci
Progress is possible at any age and any starting point – her own journey proves it.
Stop overcomplicating: focus on the 2–3 things that move the needle the most.
Golf is supposed to be joyful – when you get More Pars, you get more smiles.
Invest in yourself: one weekend at a More Pars Camp can save you years of frustration.
Closing
Doris thanks Christina
Subscribe, leave a review, share with your golf buddies
Where to find Christina: → Website: www.morepars.com → YouTube: Christina Ricci – More Pars Golf → Instagram: @morepars
For more information visit our website:  www.thetravelinggolfdiva.com or follow us on social media

The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast with Doris and Rob Chaplin, The Travel Company

In the sun-drenched fairways of global golfing adventures, meet Doris and Rob Chaplin, the dynamic duo behind a premier travel company hailing from the United Kingdom, where their passion for seamless journeys blends the precision of the green with the thrill of discovery.
 
As seasoned owners with a storied legacy in communication, leisure, travel, and tourism, Rob brings an impressive track record of excellence, having bootstrapped The Golf Travel Company from a bold vision in 1999 into South Africa's unrivaled #1 outbound golf tour operator—a testament to his mastery in negotiation, business and leisure travel, top-tier customer service, and savvy sales strategies. Joined by Doris, they infuse every itinerary with insider expertise, whether crafting bespoke escapes that marry world-class courses with cultural immersion or weaving in the spirited fun of football golf for groups seeking a lighter swing on tradition. In this episode of The Traveling Golf Diva, the Chaplins share captivating tales from the road, including Rob's mesmerizing recent sojourn to Egypt, where ancient wonders met modern tees along the Red Sea, revealing why this storied land is the ultimate diva's next horizon for luxury, legacy, and unforgettable pars.
Visit website: https://thetravelinggolfdiva.com/podcast-episode/
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/TheTravelingGolfDiva
 

Diva Travel Prep, Handling Disasters, Travel Checklist: Be Ready Before You Tee Off

In this episode, Doris Muscarella—your Traveling Golf Diva—dives into one of the most important but often overlooked parts of golf and travel: being prepared for the unexpected. From flight delays and lost clubs to sudden weather shifts, Doris shares her personal Brightline Orlando travel story and offers practical, diva-approved tips to keep your golf adventures on course.
Get your Air Tags for your luggage at:  UNBREAKcable AirTag Holder for Apple - 4 Pack Air Tag Case [Fit Tightly Design] [Easy to Install] [Hold Securely] Waterproof TPU Protective Cover with Metal Keychain
 
THE TRAVELING GOLF DIVA
PODCAST
Travel checklist
Ultimate Golf Travel Must-Have Checklist Curated & road-tested by Doris Muscarella.  Print this, screenshot it, or save it to your phone — this is the exact checklist Doris uses (and shares with every guest) before any international or domestic golf adventure!
Documents & Money
Passport (valid 6+ months past return date) + color photocopies
Flight & hotel confirmations (digital + printed)
Tee-time confirmations & course dress-code printouts
Travel insurance proof (with golf club coverage!)
International driver’s license (if renting a car)
Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees + some local cash
GHIN card or handicap certificate (many overseas clubs require it)
Golf Gear Essentials
Travel bag with stiff-arm or hybrid hard/soft case
2–3 dozen favorite golf balls (custom stamped = easier to identify)
Rain gloves (2 pairs) & waterproof pouch
Collapsible umbrella (course-compliant size)
Lightweight push cart or rental confirmation
Spare spikes/soft spikes tool
Sharpie + ball-marker stash
Small towel with carabiner clip
Sunscreen stick (SPF 50+) & lip balm with SPF
Bug spray wipes (for Scotland, Ireland, Southeast USA)
Clothing – Pack Like a Diva
5–6 golf outfits (mix-and-match tops & bottoms for 14 looks)
Layering pieces: lightweight packable puffer & cashmere sweater
Rain jacket & rain pants that actually fit over golf clothes
Wide-brim or bucket sun hat + visor
10+ pairs golf socks (no-show & crew)
Evening dinner outfits (many clubs have strict after-6 pm dress codes)
Compression socks for the flight
Foldable flats or stylish sneakers for non-golf time
Belt bag/fanny pack that matches your outfits
Tech & Health
Portable charger + international adapters (Type G for UK/Ireland, etc.)
Air Tags in golf bag, suitcase, and purse
Noise-canceling headphones (for long flights & range sessions)
Travel-size laundry sheets (do a mid-trip sink wash)
Mini first-aid kit: Band-Aids, Advil, blister pads, allergy meds
Collapsible water bottle
Yeti-style insulated tumbler for keeping drinks cold on the course
Diva Extras (Never Leave Home Without)
Jewelry rolls (magnetic ones are genius)
Packable sun sleeves (instant arm coverage)
Mini hair straightener or curling wand
Clear stadium-approved purse for tournaments
Lightweight scarf/blanket for chilly airplane cabins
Gratitude journal – because every birdie deserves to be recorded!
Pro Tip from Doris: Lay everything out 5 days before departure, then remove 30 %. You’ll still have too much… but at least you’ll have room for the new golf polo you’ll buy on the trip.
This episode blends golf, travel, business, and lifestyle lessons into one engaging conversation that will leave you feeling inspired, prepared, and stylish for your next journey.
 

Introduction - The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast Where Golf Meets Travel, Lifestyle, and Unforgettable Adventures.

Hi There, it is Doris, your Golf Diva and Welcome to The Traveling Golf Diva Podcast.  Where Golf Meets Travel, Lifestyle, and Unforgettable Adventures.  Website:  https://thetravelinggolfdiva.com/